John 20:10

Then the disciples returned to their homes.

Study Bible

Then
The word "then" serves as a transitional term, indicating a sequence of events. In the context of John 20, it follows the discovery of the empty tomb by Mary Magdalene and the subsequent visit by Peter and the other disciple, traditionally understood to be John. This moment marks a pivotal transition from confusion and despair to the unfolding revelation of the resurrection. The Greek word used here, "τότε" (tote), often signifies a critical turning point in the narrative, emphasizing the shift from the disciples' initial bewilderment to the beginning of their understanding of the resurrection.

the disciples
This phrase refers specifically to Peter and John, who were among the closest followers of Jesus. The term "disciples" (Greek: μαθηταί, mathētai) denotes learners or students, highlighting their role as those who were taught by Jesus. In the broader context of the Gospel, the disciples are portrayed as witnesses to Jesus' life, death, and resurrection, tasked with carrying forward His teachings. Their return home at this moment reflects a temporary retreat, possibly to process the events they have just witnessed.

returned
The act of returning (Greek: ἀπῆλθον, apēlthon) suggests a movement away from the tomb back to a place of familiarity and safety. This return is not just physical but also symbolic of a return to contemplation and reflection. The disciples are in a state of transition, moving from the shock of the empty tomb to a deeper understanding of its implications. This word captures the human tendency to seek comfort in the familiar when faced with the unknown.

to their homes
The phrase "to their homes" (Greek: πρὸς ἑαυτοὺς, pros heautous) indicates a return to their personal spaces, where they could ponder the events privately. In the cultural and historical context of the time, the home was a place of refuge and reflection. This return signifies a moment of introspection for the disciples, as they grapple with the reality of the resurrection. It underscores the personal nature of faith, as each disciple must come to terms with the resurrection in their own way and time.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Disciples
Specifically, Peter and John (the disciple whom Jesus loved) are the focus here. They had just visited the empty tomb of Jesus.

2. The Empty Tomb
The place where Jesus was laid after His crucifixion, now found empty by the disciples.

3. Jerusalem
The city where these events took place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and the location of Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection.

4. Mary Magdalene
Although not mentioned in this specific verse, she is a key figure in the surrounding account, having discovered the empty tomb first.

5. The Resurrection
The pivotal event of Christianity, which the empty tomb signifies, though not fully understood by the disciples at this point.

Teaching Points

Understanding in Stages
The disciples returned home without fully understanding the resurrection. This teaches us that spiritual understanding often comes in stages and requires patience and faith.

The Importance of Witness
The disciples' initial reaction to the empty tomb highlights the importance of being witnesses to Christ's resurrection, even when full understanding is lacking.

Faith in Uncertainty
Returning home symbolizes a return to normalcy amidst uncertainty. Believers are called to have faith even when circumstances are unclear.

Preparation for Mission
The disciples' return home can be seen as a time of preparation before their mission begins, reminding us of the importance of preparation in our spiritual journeys.

Hope in the Resurrection
The empty tomb is a symbol of hope and victory over death, encouraging believers to live in the light of the resurrection.

Bible Study Questions

1. What might the disciples have been thinking or feeling as they returned to their homes after seeing the empty tomb?

2. How does the disciples' initial lack of understanding about the resurrection encourage us in our own spiritual journeys?

3. In what ways can we prepare ourselves for the mission God has for us, as the disciples did after returning home?

4. How does the hope of the resurrection influence your daily life and decisions?

5. What other biblical accounts of witnessing God's work can you relate to the disciples' experience at the empty tomb? How do these accounts encourage you?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Luke 24:12
This verse provides a parallel account of Peter running to the tomb, emphasizing the disciples' initial confusion and wonder.

John 14:1-3
Jesus' promise of preparing a place for His followers connects to the disciples returning home, symbolizing a temporary return before understanding their mission.

Acts 1:8
The disciples' return home foreshadows their later empowerment and mission to spread the Gospel after receiving the Holy Spirit.

Psalm 16:10
This Old Testament prophecy about not abandoning the soul to Sheol connects to the resurrection theme, which the empty tomb signifies.

1 Corinthians 15:3-4
Paul's summary of the Gospel includes the resurrection, which the empty tomb in John 20:10 points towards.